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Power is the ability to define phenomena, and make it act in a desired manner.
Huey Newton
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Power is the capacity to influence and control how events and situations unfold.

This quote by Huey Newton reflects the idea that power is not just about authority or force; it's fundamentally about the ability to shape reality according to one's will. It emphasizes that true power lies in one's capacity to interpret and manipulate the world around them, encouraging individuals to take control of their circumstances and strive to create the outcomes they desire.

Themes

PowerInfluenceControlRealityDefinition

In practice

Example use cases

In a political speech advocating for change, one might say, 'As Huey Newton stated, power is the ability to define phenomena.'

More from Huey Newton

There's no reason for the establishment to fear me. But it has every right to fear the people collectively - I am one with the people.
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Those in the community who defy authority and 'break the law' seem to enjoy the good life and have everything in the way of material possessions. On the other hand, people who work hard and struggle and suffer much are the victims of greed and indifference, losers. This insane reversal of values presses heavily on the Black community. The causes originate from outside and are imposed by a system that ruthlessly seeks its own rewards, no matter what the cost in wrecked human lives.
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There will be no prison which can hold our movement down.
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I expected to die. At no time before the trial did I expect to escape with my life. Yet being executed in the gas chamber did not necessarily mean defeat. It could be one more step to bring the community to a higher level of consciousness.
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By surrendering my life to the revolution, I found eternal life
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But before we die, how shall we live? I say with hope and dignity; and if premature death is the result, that death has a meaning reactionary suicide can never have. It is the price of self-respect.
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